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A Luciferase-fluorescent Reporter Influenza Virus for Live Imaging and Quantification of Viral Infection
Published on: August 14, 2019
Influenza and parainfluenza viral infections in children
Thomas G Fox1, John C Christenson1
1Department of Pediatrics, Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, IN.
Insights
Influenza and parainfluenza viruses cause significant illness in vulnerable populations. Influenza vaccines are safe and effective for children and pregnant women, protecting infants under six months.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Vaccinology
- Respiratory viral infections
Background:
- Influenza and parainfluenza viruses are major causes of illness and death in young children and those with chronic health issues.
- These viruses pose a significant public health burden, necessitating effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of influenza vaccines in pediatric populations.
- To assess the role of influenza and parainfluenza viruses in pediatric morbidity and mortality.
- To review treatment options for laryngotracheitis caused by parainfluenza viruses.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiologic evidence on influenza and parainfluenza virus infections.
- Analysis of research evidence on influenza vaccine effectiveness and safety in children.
- Examination of studies on the use of corticosteroids and epinephrine for laryngotracheitis.
Main Results:
- Influenza vaccines are proven effective and safe for children aged 6 months and older.
- Vaccination of pregnant mothers is a key strategy to protect infants under 6 months from influenza.
- Corticosteroids and epinephrine show benefit in treating parainfluenza-induced laryngotracheitis.
Conclusions:
- Influenza vaccination is a critical preventive measure for high-risk children and infants.
- Parainfluenza virus infections require specific treatment considerations for laryngotracheitis.
- Public health strategies should prioritize influenza vaccination in pregnant women and young children.
Abstract:
• On the basis of strong epidemiologic evidence, influenza and parainfluenza viruses are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in young infants and children and in persons with chronic medical conditions. (1)(4)(26)(27)(35). • On the basis of research evidence, influenza vaccines are effective in preventing disease in high-risk individuals. (8)(17)(18). • On the basis of strong research evidence, influenza vaccines are safe in young infants and children 6 months or older. (8)(15).• On the basis of research evidence, the use of corticosteroids and epinephrine is beneficial in the treatment of laryngotracheitis caused by parainfluenza viruses. (44)(45)(46)(47). • Strong evidence supports the use of influenza vaccines in pregnant mothers as a strategy to prevent disease in infants younger than 6 months. (17)(18)(19).
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